AutoTag is an automatic identification system for trolleys/gambrels, trays and meat products.

The system is based on the latest in Radio Frequency (RF) technology. AutoTag is used to track the carcasses at the kill floor e.g. from the AutoFom to the hot scale. When the carcasses enter the cooler, AutoTag can be used to automatically sort the carcasses onto the correct storage rail.

AutoTag can be used on meat products (e.g. dry cured hams) as information carrier.

The advantages over labels and bar codes are that the system does not require visible contact and the tags are very durable and can be recycled.

System description

The AutoTag system consists of RFID tags (small passive radio transmitters) mounted on the gambrels/trolleys, an antenna, a sensor and an ID-box/reading station. When the gambrel/trolley passes a reading station, the RFID tag is activated and sends a unique ID-number. The energy needed for transmission of the ID-number is provided by the reading antenna. Depending on the application, the ID number will either be sent each time a sensor is triggered or each time the reading station's interface box is polled by the host computer.

RFID Tags

Transponder with random unique coding. Reading distance: 60 mm (2,36 inches). Reading temperature: -55º C (-67º F) to +125ºC (257º F).

Optional

The AutoTag system can be integrated with a grading system e.g. the AutoFom and a pH*K21, and the system can be used to control the hot/cold shrinkage, to track producers and to track the gambrel tara weight.

Capacity

Depending on the conveyor speed.